This year I am swimming for two very important people, who have lost their lives: Grandpa Buck and Coach Don. In my last collegiate swimming year, I want to especially honor them for the impact they have made on my life, especially in swimming.

Grandpa Buck battled stomach/esophageal cancer for many months, before losing his life in June 2023. Although he lived a long life, it was one that was taken sooner than we would have wanted because of cancer. Grandpa Buck may not have coached me in the sport of swimming, but he has been one of my biggest supporters. He always watched my races with my Mimi and told me how great I did (even if I swam horribly). He was unconditionally proud of me and my swimming, and always has been. I would love to have my grandpa watch my last races in my college career this year, but cancer did not make that possible. I am swimming Swim Across America for my Grandpa Buck and the impact he has had on me.

Coach Don coached me during my high school years. He always understood me, encouraged me to be better in and out of the pool, and supported me in the sport of swimming. He truly made me love the sport. His life was ultimately taken too soon by an advanced form of melanoma. The sport of swimming allowed my teammates and I to know, be coached by, and be loved by Coach Don. Swim Across America allows me to swim for Don and to fight the cancer which took my coach. 

In September, I will be swimming for Grandpa Buck and Coach Don. If you are able to donate, please do. The researchers you are funding are the next generation of cancer pioneers. Without Swim Across America early stage funding, they are not able to conduct trials that can lead to breakthroughs that can save lives. Thank you for helping save lives!